Soccer Football – Bundesliga – 1. FC Heidenheim v Borussia Dortmund – Voith-Arena, Heidenheim, Germany – February 1, 2025
Kovac Praises Guirassy’s Crucial Role
Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has praised striker Serhou Guirassy for his exceptional performances this season, emphasizing the player’s vital role within the team. The remarks came as Dortmund prepare to face Augsburg in an upcoming Bundesliga match.
“He’s like our life insurance at the moment. He’s always on and has to get through it,” Kovac told reporters. “The fact that it’s Ramadan now doesn’t make it any easier for him, but he’s an absolute professional and he’ll manage that too.”
Guirassy, a 28-year-old international from Guinea, joined Dortmund from VfB Stuttgart last July. He has been a key player for Dortmund. He has scored an impressive 24 goals across all competitions this season.
Dortmund Aims to Build on Recent Wins
Dortmund, currently 10th in the Bundesliga standings with 35 points, is looking to build on the momentum from their recent victories against St Pauli and Union Berlin. Their next challenge comes in the form of 11th-placed Augsburg.
However, Kovac acknowledged Augsburg’s defensive strength, which has seen the team concede only two goals during an eight-game unbeaten run in the league. “Augsburg is a team that plays very physical football. They play with a very compact five-man defence, which has allowed very little recently,” Kovac said.
“It’s up to us to put a lot of pressure on them and create enough chances so that we can get our fans on our side and hopefully win this game.”
Injury Concerns for Dortmund
Dortmund will be without left-back Daniel Svensson, who sustained a ligament injury in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against Lille, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Midfielder Felix Nmecha will also miss the match.
“Svensson will miss some time,” Kovac stated. “(Carney) Chukwuemeka trained with us today, but unfortunately didn’t give the green light. He won’t be involved tomorrow. Apart from Nmecha, everyone else will be fine and healthy.”
Regarding Nmecha’s recovery, Kovac said, “(Nmecha) completed his first run today. His level is satisfactory… It will take time, but he will be an important part of this club’s future.”
